Center City will review cost estimates for Schultze Avenue drainage after residents report erosion

Barry Moe, a resident and owner of 330 Summit Avenue, and neighboring property owner Kyle Johnson told the Center City Council on Aug. 6 that water draining from private parking areas has caused persistent erosion and sidewalk damage near the corner of Johnson’s building. The owners said paving and regrading parking lots to direct runoff away from the street, and work where the pavement meets the city street, would help address the problem.

Council members discussed the proposals and agreed to review cost estimates provided by Bluhm Construction to determine next steps. The owners asked the city to be “in agreement to move forward” with repairs; the council did not record a formal vote to authorize construction at the meeting but committed to evaluating estimates and options.

The exchange took place during the meeting’s New Business agenda item on Schultze Avenue. The discussion produced a clear next step — a review of cost estimates — but did not include an approved funding source or a construction schedule. Council members noted that further cost information and a plan would be required before any work could be authorized.

The matter will likely return to the council after staff compiles estimates and funding options. The council also handled several routine items at the meeting, including approval of an interlocal public-works assistance contract with the City of Shafer and routine personnel actions.